Just got back from talking to the parents at our Sacramental Prep session for Penance. I "hit them between the eyes" with the fact that they need to be practicing the faith themselves. (Read: going to Mass every Sunday.) I think I did it with just enough humor, though, so as not to come across as lecturing them. Even in my desire to "tell them like it is" I realize that lecturing them is going to get me nowhere. I can only pray that my approach reached someone.
Next it is a memorial Mass for a guy who died last week. Then a wedding in a parish forty minutes from here. Back here for confession and the anticipated Sunday Mass. Finally back out for the wedding reception. Then maybe (if it isn't too late) meeting with one of my spiritual directees. A full and fun day indeed!
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Father Charles, I am new to reading this blog. But I like what I am seeing so far!
I hope you didn't get the hostility I did. My talk used humor, too, and the point that faith begins at home. (I may actually post the content of my talk).
Some people don't like the idea being advanced that if they are Catholic, they must practice their faith, they must learn their faith, and that their children's faith actually involves them.
But I know from others that the sacramental year brings a lot of families back to the Church...lead by their children and their love for their children.
But anyway, if you did get the hostility...I'm very sympathetic!
Just a thought about the hostile vibes both Adoro and Father seemed to be picking up at the sacramental prep meetings. It could be that some people were feeling a bit defensive because they were afraid they would get a public chewing out for their less-than-diligent Mass attendance. When that didn't happen, they relaxed a bit (your prayers didn't hurt either!). Often people will do for their children what they won't do for themselves. Think of all those who have quit smoking because the doctor told them that second-hand smoke was bad for the kids. As Adoro said, this may bring many families back to church.
melody ~ Actually, I spoke to 2 different groups. The first group was crabby. The second group came in better disposed. It was a completely different dynamic, and they got the same presentation. Granted, I tweaked it a little the 2nd time, but only by adding to the content...the message that they had to practice their faith which included going to Reconciliation with their children didn't change.
So it wasn't the realization they were not going to be chided (which they were, but indirectly and with charity) for either group.
Some people just aren't interested in really being Catholic. Please pray for them, and for the children they are raising.
No hostility. It seems people are much more reserved and circumspect around Father. Unfortunately it is people like you Adoro, who bear the brunt of the hostility. Hang in there!
Well, as long as people like me have the support of people like you, it makes a huge difference. None of us is on an island, that's for sure!
Fr. Charles Ledderer, The Dakotas, USA you are impersonating a Catholic priest. Your identity is fictitious. There are people on here that are believing you. I am asking you not to trick people anymore.
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